A 5K Run Planning Checklist

Whether you're planning a race or a fun run, a 5K run is a great way to help keep your community healthy and happy. A 5K run will get people out and encourage them to be active. If you're doing it as a fundraiser, it can also help out community organizations by putting money in the coffers. A 5K is a short distance, but it's a big commitment for an organizer; make sure you have everything you need to do the job right.

Video of the Day

Venue

You can't hold a 5K run unless you've got a place to run. Many runs are held of city streets, but to do this you will need the permission of your municipality. Be sure to contact the municipality well in advance of your event to acquire the proper permits. Holding the event on city roads will mean that you'll need to have police shut down the roads or direct traffic -- something which may come with a price tag. Alternatively, you can head off-road to a park or trails to host your event, but you'll still need permission from the body administering the venue.

Helping Hands

A 5K isn't a one-man effort. You'll need people to help set up before the event and people to pitch in during the run itself. You'll need race marshals along the course to direct runners -- especially at intersections or forks in the road -- and volunteers to hand out water at the aid stations. If the race is timed you'll need a finish line crew to man the timing system and record times as people cross the line. If you're hosting the 5K as a fundraiser for an organization, look to members of the organization as volunteers. Also seek out local community groups and running clubs as a potential source of volunteers.

Keep It Safe

Be sure to have someone on hand to administer first aid in the event of an accident. The American Medical Association suggests seeking out volunteers from your local medical school. Secure liability insurance to protect yourself and others in case anything goes wrong. If you have your event sanctioned by U.S.A. Track and Field, you can get insurance through them. You may also be able to get coverage under an existing policy for the organization hosting the run.

Material Goods

You should have water and cups as well as a table to set them up on along the course. A single aid station will be sufficient for a 5K run. You won't need sports drinks at your aid station, but you may want to have them at the finish line. Other things to have at the finish line include fruits, granola and other snacks along with bottles of water. Ask your local supermarket to donate these items. You can also ask local businesses to donate items as prizes for runners. If you want to give T-shirts or medals to participants, consider having them sponsored by businesses to cover the cost.